Intimate Basics Dilator Set

The product name says it all: for anyone on a budget, this basic set of vaginal dilators is a great bargain, and aside from a few minor drawbacks (most notably the sound level), it provides a gradual way of building (or rebuilding) comfort with vaginal penetration. All four sizes fit smartly into one base (think Matryoshka dolls only with a vibrator at the base) and the base is designed as a handle for comfortable use and relatively easy adjustment of the multi-speed motor. At $46 for the whole set, this also has to be the least expensive dilator set going.

The set comes with one base, which is a handle with the smallest dilator permanently attached. Also included are three more hard plastic hollow dilators. Each fits over the smaller size and easily locks into place. Length and diameter of each insertable dilator is listed below:

• Smallest: 3 1/2" by 7/8"
• Medium: 4 1/4" by 1"
• Large: 5 1/2" by 1 1/4"
• Largest: 6 1/4" by 1 1/2"

Also included in the kit is an inexpensive clear rubber sleeve which is not necessarily recommended, particularly if you are using the dilators to help with discomfort during vaginal penetration. The sleeve is low-quality and will create a lot of friction, which may by painful for some. On the other hand, it might be pleasurable for others, and it does provide an opportunity to increase the width of the dilator slightly.

The vibrator base requires two "AA" batteries, but of course the dilators can be used with or without vibration. Externally the dilators have no seams on the shaft, but there is a small indent at the tip of each dilator—likely the result of the mold the vibrators were made in. This may seem like a minor point, and for many it won't be noticeable. But for people who have great sensitivity and are starting from no comfort with penetration at all, this may be a problem. The Femani Wands which are more expensive and must be purchased separately, are completely smooth and seamless.

Pros

• Great design allows you to easily increase the size of the dilator without having to purchase or keep multiple toys at the ready.
• Among the least expensive dilator sets available.
• The handle allows for comfortable manipulation of the dilator.
• The sizes go up by 1/4" which is more gradual than some sets (although not as gradual as others).

Cons

• When the motor is on, the dilator produces a noticeable, almost loud, buzzing.
• The tip of each dilator has a very small indent which might cause pain or discomfort for people who are very sensitive.
• The inexpensive price may be reflected in the quality of the motor and material.

Unlike many other dilator sets, this one comes with no instructions on use. Unless you are only purchasing this product for pleasure and don't currently have any difficulty with vaginal penetration, it is recommended that you talk with your doctor or health care professional before you start using any dilators, just to make sure that they are the right tool and that you know how to use them in a way that won't cause more pain.

Intimate Basics Dilator Set is described as fully waterproof. This makes it very easy to clean, as does the non-porous, hard plastic material. To ensure the long (or longer) life of your toy, you may want to avoid leaving it submerged in water for any extended period, or using it underwater at all. The multi-speed dial cap will, over time, separate slightly from the body; this is one potential place for water to damage the toy. Other than this, using water and an unscented soap should be sufficient to keep the toy clean, provided you are not sharing the toy with others.

Disclosure: Review samples were provided by Good Vibrations. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.